Vice Presidential Candidates Prep for Debate

Vice President Dick Cheney and Sen. John Edwards figure to be going all out to try and make that difference for their side in the one and only debate between the running mates of President George W. Bush and Sen. John Kerry.

Cheney and Edwards will square off on the campus of Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland. The so called "Race at Case" is generating excitement in a community that's struggled to emerge from recession.

It will be the one and only debate between the rivals for the number two slot, pitting a successful trial lawyer against a longtime Washington insider.

"You couldn't get a bigger contrast of styles or resumes," said Mark Halperin, ABC News Political Director. "Dick Cheney, of course, a long time experienced Washington figure, but someone that doesn't have the warmest personality and demeanor with the general public. John Edwards, new to politics, relates very well to people."

Edwards will try to build on the momentum his running mate has enjoyed since the first presidential debate in Miami.

The latest ABC News/Washington Post poll shows John Kerry increased his personal favorability after his performance last week.

Our survey shows President Bush still holding onto a slight lead.

With the backdrop of Cleveland, a city that's lost thousands of jobs in the last few years, expect the V.P. contenders to talk a lot about the economy.

Both sides are also preparing to clash on Iraq and homeland security.

Both campaigns are playing down expectations as they did last week. In a conference call, the Kerry camp called Cheney a formidable debater, while the Bush team referred to Edwards as the man with the "golden tongue."

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